Authorized to Impact

They were completely amazed at His teaching; because He was teaching them as one having [God-given] authority, and not as the scribes. (MARK 1:22 AMP) 

As young girls, we slowly but steadily internalize some faulty thinking and become wired to reach for what we think is appropriate (the right thing to do) or attainable (the best we can do). When we are fed protocol instead of purpose, we settle for less. Jesus shows us what it looks like, however, to trade protocol living for permission living. He didn’t have traditional religious titles, degrees, or positions that would have qualified Him, by social standards, to teach about heaven, much less perform miracles anytime and anyplace. He was young, just entering His thirties...but He was anointed by God with a fresh message that the world didn’t even know it needed. God is saying the same thing about you. It’s fine to get traditional training, and it’s important to be an intelligent, responsible steward of your talents. The problem is when protocol—how things are supposed to go—becomes an idol. Nothing about God is predictable. The Holy Spirit is uncontainable. Your authority doesn’t come from man, paved paths, and predictable plans; it comes from the King of kings. 

Have you been waiting for someone to approve how you do what you believe God is calling you to? What would it look like to give yourself permission to pursue that calling regardless of qualification or custom? 

Lord, You are my commander in chief. Your will is my desire, and Your Word is my direction. Help me to detox from protocol, outdated beliefs, old conventions, and anything that would block me from being who You’ve built me to be. AMEN. 

Looking for more inspiration? You can find more resources for hope and encouragement, such as products to help you grow in your faith or resources in our article library on DaySpring.com.